Do what real Americans used to do
Get local business involved that will donate a little time and materials. Have every business that will participate (don't patronage the ones who will not) put up the same banner on a smaller scale, maybe 2’x3’. Then enlist all the local residents to put a 1’x2’ version on the front of their houses. If elected officials, city on up to US, don't start getting the clue that "We the People" are who they are supposed to be listening to, then they need to get out of the representing business. It is time that they accepted what the "Will of the People" means.
Best of Luck to you all,
Let Freedom Ring
SSgt Brian
United States Marine Corps
The Quinteros
To: Mr. Jeff Kronschnabl and the City Officials of Clearwater, Florida:
Re: The punishment of the Quinteros by the City of Clearwater (see keepthefish.com)
I write as a long time Florida resident now living in Tennessee; a former three term mayor of a Florida City; a former U.S. Navy jet fighter pilot of the Korean War era; a physician and surgeon of some 40 years service to my fellow citizens in need, and, most important, a regular citizen of the United States who loves his country and the ideals and principles and Constitution on which it was established.
I will not be verbose, but will be brief and direct.
I admire and support Herb and Lori Quintero. They are to be commended in many ways.
In contrast, Mr. Kronschnabl, I am filled with disgust at your action against the Quinteros and their business. You are not only arbitrary and unreasonable; you are stupid and have demonstrated a lack of principle.
Moreover, I can only shake my head at the arrogance, stubbornness and lack of wisdom of your superiors -- City Manager William Horne, Mayor Frank Hibbard, and Members of the City Council. All of you are serving yourselves and false standards. You are not serving the people of Clearwater, or the businesses that serve the people and the tourists, or those who supply the tax dollars for the city and your jobs. Furthermore, you are creating for Clearwater a reputation that will be difficult to erase. Worse still, you undermine our precious freedoms and violate our Constitution -- the bulwark of this nation.
Before more harm is done to the city and to yourselves, apologize to the Quinteros, return whatever fines they have paid, and modify or repeal your sign ordinance.
Finally, a word of wisdom: Every bureaucrat and elected official should keep in mind that there is no one less important than a politician who has been voted out of office in retaliation for his transgressions.
Sincerely,
Dr. John, M.D.
Mr Kronschabl,
The Complete Angler situation is ludicrous. You've got to get a handle on this. Would you stop your child from driving a car at all to solve the problem of a potential car accident? That's what you’re saying in justification of banning the CA artwork, "Because, someone might put up something really offensive."
Handle the offensive one when it occurs. The answer is the same for a child driver as it is for a business as it is for your office: training and education. Put in some sensible guidelines and let everyone know what they are.
I understand your desire to keep the environment free of crass commercial and offensive signage but this does smell a bit. Whooooo's been in your ear?
Thanks for reading this. Best,
Rory
Clearwater
Sent to Jeff Kronschnabl and city of Clearwater
It seems that if you are going to attempt to enforce a "code violation" by becoming self proclaimed art critics you should consider this: There is a private school and a business located very near the Complete Angler. The school has a huge (and distracting, provocative mural) which takes up the entire side of the building - it is of a child destructively breaking through a seemingly paper sky and dipping her fingers into the sea and picking up dolphins for her examination. I love art but personally find this particular image disturbing as it leaves one to imagine that a child is being taught that she is larger than the natural world and therefore has the right to destroy it.
The other offensive business has an enormous turtle literally stuck to the side for no apparent reason (also distracting). I could offer many more examples of questionable art on city buildings - a few fish seem a perfect complement to the surrounding area of the Complete Angler.
When I evaluate what I have personally seen this seems to have some hidden personal element involved. I find it very odd that this building was "randomly" selected to be violated when there are certainly a few hundred serious eyesores in the city. In fact I find the business directly across the street from the Angler to be a signage culprit -sign upon sign as a matter of fact. Layered signs.
You picked a fight with the wrong crowd - and seemingly for the wrong reason.
I lived in Alabama for 10 years - we took great pride in our hometown business murals - and apparently you have forgotten about your own local art grant program - follow the example of our neighbors just up US 19 in Pasco County- where a naked wall is the next great painting be it fish or trains or people dining.
Something stinks here and it certainly is NOT the fish!
Kari
Clearwater
Good Luck
I support the Quinteros 100% and wish them success in their fight!!! Please don't give up!!! Someone needs to put these greedy government officials in their place!!!
Marty
A fellow Floridian
Keep the Fish
I heard someone talk about the problem with the Complete Angler on the Hugh Hewitt program. Here is the email I sent:
"Not sure where Clearwater went right on this fiasco with Herb Quintero. It appears the bad press is going to hurt you more than you think. I don't see any pluses to your position. I, for example, was seriously considering moving to Clearwater until I read the about the Complete Angler problem. I have a fishing tackle business in Colorado Springs, CO and decided to move to warmer climes this fall to get away from the snow. I will now consider going elsewhere as it seems you people are not very business friendly. Did anyone at the City of Clearwater ever read the Constitution? Have any of them ever owned a business?
David
Fishing Tackle International"
Just heard you on Hugh Hewitt
Good day -
AWESOME site! Keep the bells of FREEDOM ringing!
Thank you!
Andrew
Louisville, KY
Email sent to the city manager
To Whom it may concern,
Be happy that this is a tackle store not a bar or strip club. Save your time energy and money fighting the big issues. This is another bonehead example of bureaucratic bumbling.
Thank you,
Cimarron
Fish Art
Aloha.
The problem of juvenile bureaucratic behavior is endemic in our so called civil services. As anyone who has to deal with a bureaucracy (think DMV) can tell you there is very little that is civil about most of these inept and often times spiteful people. I have been a small businessman for over thirty years. We must deal with an ever expanding array of regulations and regulators. Up to and including the precise location of the staples on submitted documents. In many jurisdictions after only a few months they become tenured, so that no matter how dismal their job performance they can not be fired without confronting, ironically, another convoluted self serving bureaucracy. And of course nepotism is rampant; the mayors' drop out son is in charge of the Public Works Department, or some such.
Patrick
Hawaii
Copy of a letter I sent today to the public office of Clearwater
I have been visiting your town for many years and spent lots and lots of money, not realizing that it was the old Moscow that I was visiting (where I was born and escaped). You sure fooled me. If you call yourselves American - you "Mayor" and the public office stooges of Clearwater, Florida should at least have properly represented yourselves when you ran for your office positions – as the anti-American communist frauds that you are.
HOLD UP OUR AMERICAN RIGHTS!!!!!!!!!!! You all should be ashamed of your "full-of-selves" for fining a business (Herb and Lori Quintero) in displaying our first Amendment. What's next? Are you going to ban the display of an American flag in OUR TOWNS - NOT YOURS, are going to abolish recognition of Veteran's Day? Is that next on you sick agenda? Have you forgotten where you live, have you forgotten that you represent the people of U.S.A. and it's not the other way around? May God help – you to get out of your posts soon – and all of us from you and people that hold public office who are just like you in our Great Nation.
Charles
Glenview, Illinois
Fish smelling sign, city of Clearwater, FL
I did live in the communist country for thirty years. I never thought that I would see the same communist dictatorship in the USA. You have no right to interfere with the Constitution; you do not have a right to impose such idiotic, dictatorial laws. Is a communist country your goal? Keep working, you are almost over there.
Jerry
Fish sign and amendment banner
I am a Clearwater resident, and I find it disgraceful that the city of Clearwater has decided that the constitution is not appropriate for display. This city, in the middle of one of the reddest states in the union, is single-handedly voiding the First Amendment. I thought red-staters believed in personal freedoms and less government interference. Or, is that only when it is convenient for them? I support the shop and its right to display both the mural and the banner. As a resident of Clearwater Beach I see numerous violations of city codes on a daily basis, some of them much more severe and aesthetically disturbing. The law is clearly at odds with the personal freedoms this great country has fought to protect. I will make it a point to go to this shop and make a purchase to show my support
Jon
Clearwater Beach
Comment from Down Under
I am a lawyer and was until recently a Councilor of the City of Shoalhaven in Australia.
I would like to comment on the remarks made by Clearwater. "They worry that if they do not penalize Mr. Quintero, other businesses – such as lingerie shops, might then be able to legally get away with painting pictures of women in lingerie, or whatever, on the sides of their buildings. In essence, such city employees feel that the fish paintings amount to being a “sign” advertisement of the products/services offered by the business owner."
So what? Big Deal!!!
Is the original brickwork or cement render or painted sheeting preferable on any shop?
It really comes down to taste, that's all - or you could say it's nothing more than a misconceived signage policy.
Just vote the dingbats out. Put in a signage policy that reflects the 21st century if you must have one.
All over the world people are putting murals on their buildings to brighten the place up.
And it's interesting that the Clearwater officials used the lingerie argument - they think that will appeal to the Mother Grundys - what? Are they moral custodians too?
They used the wrong argument here. This selection of the lingerie argument will come back to bite them when it gets to court. They may have had a good argument but they spoilt it by posing as moral guardians.
Jim
Fish to fry
What you are doing is wrong. Morally wrong! Legally Wrong! Constitutionally -- wrong. What you are doing to that shop owner is against the law of the land. In case y'all forgot, we have an immune system cleverly disguised as a rule book by which all Americans are expected to respect and obey; it's called the Constitution. You are violating the letter and the spirit of Constitution, specifically, the First Amendment. No, you can't have it your way just because you have a problem with someone who stands up to your will-to-power. Just because there's a dictator in the white House does not mean that you get to dictate what's appropriate insofar as speech is concerned, especially political speech. Especially political speech! We fought a revolution over that one! See, I'm thinking you have bigger fish to fry! Why don't you start enforcing laws that need enforcement, and stop preying on Americans who go about their business in a peaceful, productive fashion? You started this whole thing because your ego, your pride had taken a hit from someone who would not bend his knee at your command. But listen up:
You'll never get a prosecutor to try a case involving "contempt of cop" all dressed up as disorderly conduct. And that's exactly what we've got going on here, i.e. "I'll show him whose boss!" That's what this is all about, a grain of sand in your craw. How childish! How petty! How stupid! Pray tell: when are you going to hold your first Krystallnacht Party?
Vince and Jan
Inane laws and people
While I realize that Mr. Quintero may be unwilling to withdraw his well founded law suit against the city of Clearwater, the city should withdraw its complaint, and redraft its sign restrictions.
If my businesses were in Clearwater, I would already have a team of artists painting murals on all sides of my buildings.
The citizens of Clearwater should immediately start proceedings to remove all city council members that have not spoken out in favor of Mr. Quintero.
Further, the city council should fire the director of the agency that administers the sign ordinance, and admonish all other city agencies that waste of this kind will not be tolerated at any level of city government.
Every city employee that has been involved in the persecution of Mr. Quintero for their wrongful belief that he had violated the sign ordinance should be docked a week’s pay and be put on six months probation.
It is just incomprehensible that such inane people are in such positions of power in a city that I have long favored as a vacation destination.
Sincerely yours,
Doug
Fort Collins, CO
Santa Barbara, CA
Dallas, TX
What a joke
This is a joke for the city to do something like this to a good person and a bait shop. Good luck to the bait shop. This is a joke!!!!
Heard you on the Bubba the Love Sponge show on Sirius satellite radio. Love them guys, so I had to write in and say something.
Good luck and thanks so much.
Brent
Rochester, MN
Herb & Lori
Here is my not anonymous email to City:
Dear Sir,
Please help me to understand why the City of Clearwater is harassing the owners of the Complete Angler. It is the only building in the area that looks good. Most, if not all, of the rest of the area looks like the ghetto. (Except for the well- maintained Scientology motels).
I can't for the life of me understand why you are spending tax dollars to attempt to un-beautify the City of Clearwater.
Erik
Communism in Clearwater
Mr. Herb Quintero,
I have been made aware of the COMMUNIST RULERS OF CLEARWATER and your battle with them. I would like to tell you as a fellow citizen and PATRIOT, that I am proud of you and the GOOD fight that you have become involved in. You have MILLIONS of Americans backing you in this battle. Don't EVER give up, the future of our great country depends on people like you and I to fight corruption and the officials who practice it.
I have sent my comments to all the THUGS that your great website has provided contacts for. I am including a copy of what I sent to them for your entertainment and please feel "FREE" to use it as you wish. KEEP UP THE GOOD FIGHT!!!!
Yours Truly, Steve
Mr. Horne, Clearwater City Council, and Jeff Kronschnabl,
It has been recently brought to my attention that the city of Clearwater's business owners, (and citizens), are being denied their constitutional rights by the "officials" who run the city. This would include you! I am referring to the "Complete Angler" store owners in particular: The artwork that your poorly-run city has "BANNED" from the storefront of this business, along with the "1ST AMMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”!! YOU and your Buddies in the CITY COUNCIL should be nothing but ashamed at what you do to the citizens of this country and the poor residents of Clearwater. What part of "MAKE NO LAW" don't you understand? Maybe you should read the "Constitution" since you have sworn to uphold it! You politicians are digging your own grave and your days as THUGS are numbered! The "PEOPLE" of Clearwater and the U.S. are sick and tired of your ridiculous rules and ILLEGAL and UNCONSTITUTIONAL LAWS!! We won't put up with it much longer. You and your political buddies who support this type of abuse should be YANKED from behind your desk and put in jail! I am not even a resident of Fla., but after reading the plight of the business owners of Clearwater, I had to write to the Idiots that create and enforce this type of COMMUNISM!!! YES, THAT’S WHAT I SAID!
All over this country, the PEOPLE of America are dealing with corrupt officials such as you, and we are SICK of it! I am a small business owner in San Diego and believe me, I know what frustration the Owner of The Complete Angler feels when he is trying to take care of his family and better his life by starting a business, only to be "HARRASED" by THUGS like you and your cronies! I hope you are removed from your position and are forced to take care of yourself someday instead of LEACHING off the public!
YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES!
SICK AND TIRED STEVE
San Diego, CA
Minority-Owned Business Civil Law Suit
Dear Sir,
Are you an elected official? If so, you might consider the fact that unemployment is substantial in our country today. You will lose your job with behavior like this. At a time when Americans are afraid for their future and distrustful of their government it would behoove you to pay attention to the constitution and your constituents’ wishes. I find your actions despicable and (to be completely honest) worthy of a good ole’ fashion tongue lashing. Be afraid, sir; when you attempt to deprive people of their Civil Rights, you become part of the problem. The solution to that problem might not be something you are willing to live with. Personally, I think you are a narcissistic coward and a no good SOB who should not only lose their job, but should be investigated for your actions and whether those actions are, in fact, legal. Maybe a Civil law suit against you regarding your persecution of a minority-owned business would be more appropriate. It would not necessarily have to be proven; just filing it should be a sufficient headache. I am just glad that in today’s day and age we can actually hold you accountable. Good luck in your endeavors and remember that you should have seen this type of reaction coming.
Respectfully,
Jason
America
Keep the Fish
The mural on The Complete Angler tackle shop is a visual improvement to the city. There are so many eyesores that deserve the city's time and expense. Leave these people alone. I can't believe how stupid this battle has become. The officials that keep this fight alive should be removed from office. Money is tight, stop placing fines on innocent people that are only adding art at their own expense for others to enjoy. I like the fish! They are beautiful!
Suzy
Clearwater
The Complete Angler fish mural
Dear Sir,
I was appalled to discover in the Clearwater Citizen of March 6, 2009 that the City of Clearwater is pursuing action against the Complete Angler for their fish mural. As an eight-year resident of Clearwater, who has paid over $30,000.00 in property taxes, I am incensed to discover that this is how my hard-earned money gets wasted by the City. Has anyone noticed how “moribund” the downtown Clearwater area is with heaps of vacant buildings? Why on earth would you attack someone who has decided to invest their own money in bringing more life to our City? Please be informed that I am in vigorous and vocal opposition to this irresponsible waste of my taxpayer dollars.
Dominique
Clearwater
Here's what I sent to the Clearwater Web Site: (from the first screen-shot of Clearwater’s online comment form ever submitted to keepthefish.com)
This only goes to show how stupid the whole thing is. People from around the world telling you the same thing. This is beautiful artwork and you are taking a typical anal view of your policies. Why don’t you drop the whole issue and stop being so politically correct? If another business posts something inappropriate then deal with it. Otherwise, leave The Complete Angler alone! You need to give them back their money and apologize.
Karen
First the mural, then the First Amendment??? Give me a BREAK!
Greed compounded by stupidity! First the mural, then the First Amendment???
Give it UP, already!!! Back off of the very "fishy" case against The Complete Angler. What a STINKIN' MESS!
Bonnie
Chaska, Minnesota
My Letter To The City Of Clearwater, FL
You city'crats are a disgrace to this great nation for greedily fining that ma 'n' pa bait-shop because they chose to exercise their First Amendment right of free speech by painting some fish on THEIR private-property (not yours) and then displaying the U.S. Constitution over it. You worthless bureaucrats were struck down once in court over American Flag-displays and will be AGAIN. Why don't you leave our country if you don't like property-rights, free speech-rights, the First Amendment, the U.S. Constitution and the American Flag? Go back to Red Cuba--or whatever Big Gov't socialist-pesthole you came from!
Jim
Los Angeles, CA (apartment-dwelling job-worker)
Bureaucrats against the 1st Amendment (the longest letter keepthefish.com has ever received – but worthy of publishing, if nothing else, for one of the best first sentences ever)
A "law" is an opinion made up by a group of people backed by hired guns.
If you happen to violate their so called "law" or "statute" which in not a "law" anyway, and don't comply or refuse to pay their ridiculously made up amount of fine's that they claim you damaged them for, these law maker/opinion enforcers will at one point or another, issue a warrant for your arrest, send men with guns, called police, to take you against your will, put you into a steel cage, sit you in front of a man in a black dress, who by the way works for and with them as well, to hear your defense or argument, who, no matter how much standing or merit your case has, as in too many cases, happens to rule against you, taking your time, money, and threatening your livelihood and your freedom, so the other sheep don't get out of line or get any funny ideas. Does that sounds like justice and freedom?
The actions of these Power Drunk Clearwater "officials" and many others like them in many of our towns and cities is nothing less than ego, intimidation, robbery and organized coercion against an individual or individuals, such as this case, who have not damaged anyone's civil rights, anyone's person or anyone's property. If someone has and it can be proven through factual evidence, and due process of law, and can prove an actual CRIME has been committed that meet the criteria above, then rightly so.
These Clearwater "officials" bringing these charges against Herb Quintero must prove by the way of FACTUAL EVIDENCE, not opinion, that Mr.Quintero has damaged or violated their, or anyone's civil rights, anyone's person, or anyone's property for this case to be justifiable.
Especially, in my opinion, for posting the 1st Amendment of our constitution on his own private property or business! It is blatantly obvious that these "officials" and many like them are telling everyone that you don't have constitutional rights or private property!
Is the city of Clearwater the plaintiff in this case?
Who do the city officials work for or represent in this case? Who do the police in Clearwater work for and represent in this case? Who does the prosecutor work for and represent in this case? Who does the judge work for or represent in this case? They all work for and represent the city of Clearwater and the State of Florida in some capacity!
Their facade of legitimacy, being impartial and fair goes right out the door!
Can the city of Clearwater Fla. prove with factual evidence that they were damaged in any way by the posting of the 1st Amendment of our constitution on Mr. Quintero's property, I repeat, with factual evidence NOT OPINION? I highly doubt it.
Let's hope Mr. Quintero has an attorney who will bring up the points.
Do you think Mr. Quintero or anyone for that matter can be guaranteed a "fair" hearing, trial or verdict when there is a gross conflict of interest of all the "officials" and who they all represent as mentioned above?
City Manager Bill Horne told the St. Petersburg Times. "People are passionate about the First Amendment, and rightfully so. I happen to believe we did the right thing."
Well Bill Horne, we hear ya cluckin' but ironically your beliefs don't seem to match up with the simple and plain language of our 1st Amendment. We the people, who pay your salary, who you work for and answer to, when you’re not power drunk, KNOW you did the WRONG thing against this man, his family and our constitution!
I guarantee you my words speak for hundreds of thousands if not more, who don't write in. It's time to publicly apologize, admit you made a mistake, compensate this man, and back off from this pathetic predatory behavior. I guess when the fines reach the value of Mr. Quintero's business and property you can seize it by Eminent Domain or some other bogus action for the horrible damages this constitutional criminal has caused for Clearwater.
Many brave men and women have given their time and lives for this nation and our constitution and for what? So minions of petty, parasitic, power tripping thieves posing as legitimate "officials" can batter decent, hard working, responsible people into slavery and submission? Get involved people, call these officials and let them know this is completely unacceptable in Clearwater and in all cities of this nation, and show up in numbers to help and support Mr. Quintero because you’re next!
I read about this story from the group of great patriots at Worldnetdaily, who actually do their job and do it well!
Timothy
Missouri
Bill Horne
Here's what I wrote to Bill Horne (similar but with better metaphors to Michael Delk):
Bill Horne: Leave the Quinteros Alone.
I just visited your city in January with my entire family leaving behind a lot of money (sigh) while enjoying the beaches and parks, but you appear to have morons in your planning department (like Michael Delk) pushing this issue on the Quinteros and their bait and tackle shop. You and Michael need to get a life; resign and do something productive for society. I doubt if I'll ever visit Clearwater again.
Dan
One word-
STUPIDITY
Don
Message to the City of Clearwater
Once again, over-zealous bureaucrats have stepped in it. This time Clearwater has been made a horse's patootie by totalitarian impulses in their elected officials.
You should be ashamed of the ridicule you have brought your community.
You should be ashamed of the inflexible, authoritarian narrow-mindedness that you have exhibited.
Accept that you have made a mistake and treat the Quinteros fairly instead of using an iron fist and the vindictive power of the government.
Martha
Hood, VA
Communist Clearwater
Dear Mr. Quintero, I have personally driven by your place of business and I personally want to thank you for doing a beautiful job in building a great looking place of business in a place that was once very blighted. Your place of business adds a real touch of class to the city of Clearwater and you can bet for sure I will be a customer. As for the city of Clearwater, they seem to have a long history of being against people who are proud of free enterprise and proud of their country, by displaying their rights under our United States Constitution or the display of our country's flag. I am with you 210% in your receiving justice, in what is now an unjust Clearwater Mayor on down. Come election time, I and many thousands more will make sure that they are out of work. It’s long overdue that they be kicked to the curb.
Larry
Our government is not our government
To me it becomes more obvious everyday that our governments care little to nothing about the "consent of the governed" or for the taxpayers of this country. Going back 60 years, if not more, our US government decided that the "internationalist agenda" is more important than our rights, our constitution, or our consent. Within those 60 years, our local governments have become infected with that "internationalist" thought. This internationalism is taught to us as "tolerance".
Our citizens must wake up to the fact that our government considers us to be the greatest enemy. Our cities now even have non-elected advisory councils. Do you know what an advisory council is? Advisory = Soviet (Sovietskii means advisory.)
We are despised by our officials and they play shell games with us via the media and via the courts.
Now, in Russia they say we will have a revolution in 2010. Perhaps that is true?
Soulful Sax
Fight the Gov't!
Good luck and keep up the good fight! It’s more important than EVER now to make good informed choices when voting these “people” into office. We, the people, need to really start pushing back against government at every turn or we will lose ALL of our freedoms and rights!
Thanks and Best Regards,
Brian
Denver, CO
Fight oppressive government! Win! (noteworthy as this one contains one of the best LAST lines we have seen at keepthefish.com)
Hi - I just sent this to the city council.
And I wonder - since our military is sworn to protect the constitution from all enemies foreign and DOMESTIC, are they required to call in a Predator strike against city hall??
:-)
Rick
I don't know what it is about small town government in Florida, but there seems to be a news story per month about aggressive bureaucrats overstepping their bounds and oppressing citizens, as though this were a nation founded on protecting the rights of government rather than the rights of the individual.
I'm incensed by the colossal stupidity and arrogance of government fining a citizen hundreds of dollars a day for their free speech against corrupt and overweening government. If there was ever a case where the citizen's right to speak out is paramount, it is when they oppose the actions of their government. Our nation was founded by men willing to go to war against a corrupt and oppressive government!
It is pathetic that your city council is more in line with King George than George Washington.
Rick
Comment to Clearwater
It seems to me that an amicable solution to this problem could have been reached without turning it into a national news joke. While Mr. Quintero should not have had to post the 1st Amendment banner, neither should the city leadership have held fast to an obvious misinterpretation of a signage ordinance violation. What should have been an easy solution was allowed to denigrate into a peeing contest between an honest citizen and the town's highest-ranking public servants. The world has enough genuine problems. Stand down, Clearwater.
Keith
Concerned American
This note is in regard to you're cities ridiculous abuse of power pertaining to the harassment of "The Complete Angler" a business in your community. You people should be ashamed of yourselves.
Power hungry "little" politicians probably aspiring to one day take your power abusive ways to higher office and join the ranks of the other disgraced individuals who have been failing this country for years now.
YOU WORK FOR THE PEOPLE...NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND!
First, that you have an ordinance that disallows businesses to have signs advertising their products is, in a word, STUPID!
Second, that you "interpreted" this ARTWORK to actually fit within your ridiculous ordinance again is STUPID. It goes further here however to abuse of the power you have been temporarily been granted. It's harmless artwork for CHRIST SAKE! You chose to be a complete ASS about it.
Thirdly, that you're absurd rationale is that if you allow this "interpreted advertising" to stand that it opens the door for other businesses to do the same and that you may end up with someone painting a woman in lingerie. Again STUPID!
Here's a thought, because it appears you guys can't afford one, how about making the ordinance about not displaying distasteful or pornographic [things] or preferably something specific with regards to what you DON'T WANT to see portrayed on your streets. Hey, that would actually address the problem instead of taking a blanket approach to showing your force of power over a business trying to do business!!!!
Lastly, that you dare to impose a fine on this business for posting the First Amendment is further reckless abuse of your power. Again, you should be ashamed.
I'll finish by requesting that you show some humility and use common sense and logic to do your job. Ask yourself, “Am doing my job and am I doing the best job I can do?” I'll remind you again that YOU SERVE THE PEOPLE, THE PEOPLE DO NOT SERVE YOU!
The answer to these questions at this point is clearly NO.
Dale
Quintero’s situation
This is clearly a violation of his right to free speech. The fish murals are not unsightly, nor do they advertise what he actually sells. And he certainly should be able to post the First Amendment! This is doubly censoring his right to free speech! Get a clue, Clearwater!
Robin
Claremont, CA
Government Waste
Under the economy of budget cuts, I can't believe we as a people allow government to waste our money. I have seen first hand Mr. Delk’s work in Temple Terrace where he mired himself in the letter of the law and not the spirit of law. He would often cite consistency in code enforcement but would only pursue the "little guy" while those with influence would get what they wanted. I am glad to see a bait shop fighting the silliness and inane bureaucracy of government over an issue as minute as a painted wall. It’s almost like finding issues to justify their own job and pursuing personal vendettas.
Be careful Complete Angler, if they lose, they will find another way to get you.
Mark, C.P.M.
Tampa Bay Area
The Complete Angler
Sir,
It is no wonder the public loses confidence in public officials when you and the city council engage this type of behavior. Your actions are reprehensible at best and certainly bring discredit to the good people of Clearwater.
Dan
White Pine, TN
Flag ok – constitution not?
Absolutely ridiculous case! This is a clear violation of the First Amendment as well as a double standard. The Pinellas County Maintenance Dept. on East Ave. has fish murals on its buildings but it’s wrong for a private business owner? Come on, you guys need to get your act together. Government buildings are OK, but business owners must pay?! I was taught that we had the right to express ourselves. If the mural and sign were obscene this would be different but by posting the First Amendment, well you have gone too far. Clearwater has made a serious mistake and just aren't courageous enough to admit it.
Thomas
Medina, Texas
First Amendment
It is my understanding that the First Amendment is a part of the Constitution of the United States of America. Since that is in fact the case, I find it appalling that your city authorities would penalize a businessman for putting it up on his own property. I would assume that free speech is still constitutional in this Constitutional Republic. Many people have been crippled, and others have died, to defend our constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms. What better thing could have been put up for all to see? It is certainly better than graffiti, or some crude and filthy drawing, or the writings of Chairman Mao, or the sayings of Saul Alinsky, or indeed any other such garbage.
Please stop fining this man, and find your money some other way. Like so many citizens today, I am fed up with government agents, stifling the freedoms of so many. It is government’s responsibility to protect our God-given rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit (not the guarantee) of happiness.
Sincerely
Dr. James S.M.
Email to Jeff Kronschnable – "Overreaching" Clearwater, FL
RE: YOUR abuse of Mr. Quintero, via Clearwater's trampling of his First Amendment Rights....
After reading about the abuses that the City of Clearwater has inflicted upon Mr. Quintero, please note that I & my family, who visit Gulf Coast FL at least every other year for a week to 2 week vacation, will not be visiting Clearwater Florida, and will go out of our way 100% to avoid spending any $$$ in and around your municipality.
I will continue to support St. Pete, Sarasota, and Ft. Myers enthusiastically, but will not direct one dime toward your businesses unless you, your city council, and mayor do a complete 180 degree turn in your treatment of Mr. Quintero.
Please note that I have spread the word to family and friends of this outrage also.
Frank Watts
Plymouth Twp (Ann Arbor), Michigan, USA
Complete Angler signage
I was listening to a national radio program today and heard the story of the signage issue @ the Complete Angler. At first, I thought it was some sort of a joke; sadly, I soon realized it was not.
This is an absolute OUTRAGE; your behavior is OUTRAGEOUS and, quite frankly, borders on insanity. You are attempting to FINE someone because of "art-work" painted on a building, in from what I gather is a seedy, depressed, run-down ("wrong side of the tracks") side of town. And you then have the audacity to continue your bureaucratic quest when this business owner, this PAYER OF CITY TAXES, paints a replica of the First Amendment??
I hope he ends up OWNING your sorry ass city. Your own ignorance to the LAW OF COMMON SENSE shows that you are unfit to hold office and make a living sponging off of the residents and taxpayers in your community.
The only redeeming outcome is for you and the city administrators (who likewise must be so out of touch with reality or too consumed holding on to their cushy state pensions) that they are immune to how the REAL WORLD OPERATES. Watch out - citizens far outnumber bureaucratic nit wits - the revolution is brewing. Wait and see how things are being handled in the next two years. Many, many changes are in store for the likes of this nonsense.
Carol
Great job making our state and Clearwater look like a bunch of unpatriotic idiots!
Here is what I sent to Kronschnabl:
Dude – you’re embarrassing me!
I’m a FL resident serving in the military in Texas. I hate to see our state making a bad name for itself by harassing its citizens – especially for displaying parts of the Constitution!
Leave Quintero alone! Refund any fines he’s paid and send him an apology!
LTC Al
Hometown – Inverness, FL
Trip to Clearwater - CANCELLED
Mr. Kronschnabl,
Was planning a trip to Clearwater this weekend. Just made other plans in Jacksonville and could not have written the below, any better, so I didn't:
See: http://www.keepthefish.com/fromIraq.php
Jeff
Livonia, MI
Currently vacationing in Florida
The Tackle Shop
I am currently a US military man who lives in the state of Idaho; a man that lives far away from the city of Clearwater.
However, I feel compelled to email this simply because, the last time I looked, Clearwater, FL is in the United State of America -- and I swore to an oath that says I am to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies both foreign and domestic.
At this moment all you who are involved in this atrocity and the city incumbents are a domestic enemy to the Constitution. What you all are doing is utterly childish and Irresponsible... GROW UP! From what I am noticing it seems to be a pattern that is happening abroad in this nation as a whole. This is sickening as well as disheartening. You and your cronies really make those who serve question whose freedom are we fighting for and what Country we are really fighting for.
I know darn good and well I didn't raise my hand to serve under some communist country! If you really believe in “change and hope,” why don’t you change your mind and leave this man that is well with in his rights alone? By doing this it will also show the citizens of the state of Florida, and the rest of the country, that there is still yet hope for you and the government.
Raging Rod in Idaho.
Concerning Mr. Herb Quintero
Hello Mr. Kronschnabl,
I'm writing in regards to Mr. Herb Quintero. I just wanted to express my disagreement with the abuse he is receiving.
That's all.
If you think bad things happen to good people, what kind of things do you think will happen to bad people?
America is fully armed and prayed up for the battle. Choose this day whom you will serve, sir.
Have a nice day,
Kathy
CLEARWATER IS SMART
I think the city officials in Clearwater are brilliant! Follow me on this and see if you agree. When Mr. Quintero had the mural painted and the city saw it, they got together behind closed doors and devised this plan which worked. They wanted national attention to boost their sagging economy. Now they are world famous, and will soon apologize in a big way to Mr. Quintero, receive a lot of recognition as a great city and WHA-LA, the city explode with tourism. They will also offer Mr. Quintero a marketing position on the city council.
Stan Cobb
Savannah, GA
Keep the Fish!
Why are you singling out this business when applying your ordinance? You bring shame to Clearwater as you override the Supreme Law of the Land. I believe you ought to either apply it to all businesses, or repeal/modify it, before you become the laughingstock of Clearwater. Marge in Wisconsin |
You have got to be kidding
Mr. Kronschnabl:
You have got to be kidding. When did we start living in the United Socialistic States of America?. Your enforcement of a code Mr. Quintero is NOT guilty of, Section 3-1805 of Clearwater’s Community Development Code, specifically exempts “art work and/or architectural detail” from needing permits. Leave this guy alone.
Joseph
Orlando, FL
Herb Quintero - The Complete Angler
Mr. Kronschnabl,
Are there not other problems in your city to resolve than some paintings on a wall at a fellow citizens building? Are fish offensive to you? Does your local McDonald's have pictures of Ronald McDonald on their windows? Do they cut up and serve Ronald McDonald? If no, should you not have issue with them!
My family frequents your city on vacation. We will not be in the future or until you drop your ridiculous pursuit to penalize Mr. Quintero.
Find something to do with your time that will improve your city for Pete's sake.
Ben
Owensboro, KY
Complete Angler
I have driven by The Complete Angler store daily to and from work since before it was renovated, and have driven North Fort Harrison for many years now.
The beautification of the store, in an area the City of Clearwater has designated as within the Central Business District, as an Enterprise Zone and has referred to as "blighted" in their own Urban Planning documents, is to be commended. The mural is tasteful, well done and creates a much more pleasing streetscape over a generic, monochromatically-painted stucco wall. The City has worked for years to beautify this area of northern Clearwater, and for City Staff to discourage tasteful development, renovations and investment into the community is exactly opposite to the role government should be playing in this time of recession.
As an Architect who has lived in the Clearwater area for over 20 years and has worked hard to create environments that enhance peoples' lives and to beautify the City, I am once again astonished at the inability of our governing authorities to "see the BIG picture" and spend hundreds of man-hours and thousands of dollars restricting tasteful improvements, instead of working WITH private industry to encourage and facilitate a better environment for all the citizens to enjoy. After all, the 4 main purposes of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan (abbreviated) are:
1) …to encourage Downtown Clearwater to be "a unique place that fosters community interaction and fun."
2)…to be " a reflection of how our forefathers lived, worked and shopped."
3) …to "present a welcoming air to all of Pinellas County residents as they transact business with their government."
4) …to "increase its economic impact through redevelopment."
- Introduction
The mural and Mr. Quintero's investment into the property since its purchase has helped to achieve every one of those 4 goals, while the City Staff is working hard to contradict every one of them.
Keep up the good fight and do not back down in the face of senseless opposition.
Steve
I just called the Mayor's office and the council members of Clearwater, FL.
I was not at all mean with what I said, but VERY firm about this un American stand that they have taken against this man.
His mural is not at all offensive and should not be a matter of offense to the city.
I emphasized that they should immediately back off from their position on this and drop all citations and/or fines and let this man just run his business.
Actually, they should pay him restitution for the hassle and infringement upon his rights.
I strongly recommend that every American take a stand and support the rights we have as Americans, or we will lose them. Am I from Clearwater, FL? NO, I am not, I am from Indiana. However, I will take a bit of time (maybe took 20 minutes for both calls), to support the FREEDOM we have and stand against those who would oppress those freedoms. The "ruling forces" of Clearwater, FL need to see that they are accountable to EVERY American when they overstep their bounds and walk over any American.
Come on Americans - Take the time - Make the calls and let Americans know we stand together in opposition to oppression of the rights given by the Constitution. The Constitution still stands as a binding document for our America and even though some politicians have chosen to try to rewrite it to fit their own agenda, we need to let them know we won't allow it to be done!
Bob
Upset American
Mr. Kronschnabl,
I wanted to respond to you about the story I read in the paper about Complete Angler's mural and I must say that I am shocked that this is allowed to happen. We are in a recession and people are losing their jobs by the thousands and you continue to waste time with this nonsense. Let me remind you that you are a city official and that you are only in your job because the people allow you there.
Anyone can hide behind an argument of "if we let him do it then we have to let lingerie shops put up naked women" That is all chitter chatter and a very weak argument because he doesn't sell fish just fishing gear. You have no leg to stand on with this argument. Instead of being the things you should be such as a MAN and an American citizen who wants to uphold the Constitution as it is written you hide behind some arbitrary law as a coward.
How dare you. Let me say that again. HOW DARE YOU!!!! OR ANY OTHER ELECTED OFFICIAL!!! stand in the way of that man posting the his rights. Those have been paid for with the blood, sweat and tears of not only the soldiers who ever fought in an American wars and the families who have suffered their loss. It is not a privilege to have those things it is our RIGHT to have those because they have been paid for with something more precious than money, power or greed! It was paid for with blood of those who put their life on the line and lost their life. They gave up the one thing that God gave them..the only life they had to make sure that We as American's are free to live a life that we choose. This will not be tolerated and there are more of us than there are of you elected officials who are too big for your britches! WE will not let this happen to us.
Herb Quintero is a good man and he is trying to do the right thing. He is our brother because he is a good American who wants to give back to his community and his country. God will give him strength to walk through this when He needs it and we still behind him for as long as we need to until we win.
I have read the comments online and you will lose more than just a court battle in this war. You will lose tourism because of people's disgust with your decisions. That is especially sad in a time when people are holding on to their dollars as much as possible that you will lose out on them. You will lose respect not only as individuals but as a whole your community will be known as a joke to those around you and those who vote for you. Businesses who are considering your area as a place to open up will pass you by because they won't want the hassle of your interference into their lives. Which is a shame because so few business are prospering now and those who can survive, expand or start up will not waste their precious resources on you. Also your people will suffer because they will be lacking in jobs and the much needed tourism the town needs.
I'm not going to be a polite southern lady and say "Please sir, reconsider your position and let the good man keep his mural and sign". That is ridiculous, it would indicate that you have more power than what is given to you by the Constitution or the Bill of Rights, because you don't. That is your employee handbook and I suggest that you read it because...guess what? It protects you too!
Jessica
Ohio
Good for Herb Quintero!
The Herb Quintero controversy was instigated by a shallow-minded understanding of crisis management. Surely someone in the elected or appointed ranks has some sense of appropriate behavior and how to present a benign appearance.
Incidents such as this only fuel the growing anti-government base that is becoming more vocal—at this time.
A more precise evaluation would be offered but I, being a gentleman and scholar, would not demean myself and use the language and logic necessary to correctly position the city on an intellectual scale. Clearwater, Florida, its city minions being neither, should be able to decipher what I have in mind.
Fifty-two years ago my wife and I left Florida and have never regretted the decision. The state has only gotten worse. What is next?
Charles (Professor Emeritus)
Hiawasse, GA
Abuse of the First Amendment
Mr. Kronschnabl:
I read the new article about your organizations attempt to abuse the First Amendments protections of free speech rights of Mr. Herb Quintero and his business artwork.
Let me make this clear for you to understand. I am not speaking from an unfounded and unknowledgeable position.
I worked for many years in a public agency, and included within my duties was the ability to have persons or businesses cited for violations of municipal codes. I am also an expert witness in court in two states on matters of eminent domain.
As I read the article, I can only come to one conclusion that your organization, you, and your staff are abusing the private property rights of Mr. Quintero.
May I ask, what is the issue of how the organization, you, and your staff are having such a difficult time interpreting the term "art work"?
Over my years in public service, I saw many cases of bureaucrats obtaining a bit of power, no matter how large or small the amount, and abusing it to the point of embarrassment. I see that in this particular situation as well.
Small businesses will have enough difficulty in the coming months overcoming the pounding of tax changes, loss of business and trying to pay for the excesses of of taxpayer money spent in violation of the rights (not) provided to the federal government via the US Constitution. What else can you do to destroy business in your town?
What additional burdens do you want to put upon the taxpayers (your bosses) in your community?
My former military organization has a reunion scheduled for later this year in your area. I will NOT be coming there to spend my remaining "after tax" money. I will let others who have no spine do the spending. I will NOT lower my standards or beliefs in the Constitution.
DJ
Trampled Underfoot
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl,
After reading about this issue, I felt it my duty and right to let you know how wrong your decision to stifle this man's right to exercise free speech. My disgust has nothing at all to do with the man's business being targeted by an inane ordinance and everything to do with your city government circumventing his Constitutionally guaranteed rights. This is still the United States of America and the Constitution is still as relevant today as it was when the signers' ink wasn't even dry yet.
You and your fellow elected officials would be best served to do the right thing and uphold your oath's to defend the Constitution and not re-interpret it when it suits you.
Thank you for your time,
Mark
Arlington, VA
How Dare You Stomp on the Constitution!
You and your city should be ashamed! This is America where the Constitution trumps all other laws. I don't know what country you are from but since you do not like the law here, maybe you should consider going home.
Stephen
First Amendment Illegal?
How dare you infringe upon that man’s right to post the Constitution of the United States of America. Your silly pathetic town ordinance says there are to be no murals of items the store sells. The man doesn’t sell fish. You have no right to tell him to take his murals down or the banner.
I have good mind to come to Florida with some of my veteran friends and protest your backwater rules. You disgust me and the rest of this country. Thanks for proving to us that government doesn’t care and doesn’t watch out for the citizens like they are supposed to. So as you go around town in your Gestapo mobile and harass citizens know that it is not you who control us. The American people are outraged!
WE SURROUND YOU!!
Bryant
Veteran and Firm believer in the Constitution of the United States of America
Mr.Kronschnabl,
I just read an article and viewed TV news reports regarding the mural on The Complete Angler’s building and just had to send a note to ask your office to reconsider the actions taken on this issue. From what I can see from the pictures I must say that the mural seems to be done very tastefully and represents the beauty of the game fish that are indigenous to your waters. I understand your “strict rule prohibiting murals on businesses that depict a product the business sells”, because I agree a mural of fishing rods, reels, hooks, lines and sinkers along with yucky bait would be very tacky.
This particular mural however I don’t think meets the intent of the city’s rule and the rule in this case is being applied incorrectly. The Complete Angler does not sell game fish as a product. Therefore The Complete Angler mural is art, not advertising. I’m sure you understand that in today’s atmosphere this is just another example of the insanity that government around the country is exhibiting trying to micro-manage people’s lives.
I hope you take to heart the ramifications of restricting this business owner as it does imply throughout the public that the government in Clearwater is infringing on one of our most precious constitutional rights. I’d also like to say that “it’s okay” to reverse your office’s stance on this mural as I’m sure everyone will commend you for being “reasonable” and showing “common sense”. There is a gracious way to admit this has been a mistake or a bureaucratic misunderstanding instead of moving forward wasting resources trying strong-arm a hard working small business owner.
In closing I’d like you to consider a comparison. If given the opportunity would you deny the famed marine artist Wyland, http://seapics.com/feature-subject/photographers/wyland-001.html, from painting one of his famous wall murals on the side of The Complete Angler? I would hope not! As far as I can see there is no difference.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Hugh-Tuza
Holes
Dear sir, there are a lot of ---holes in this world ! Unfortunately, many can't help themselves. But You sir, I believe belong to THE SELF-APPOINTED category! You should wake up and reverse this ( If you can ), and become a friend to what this country was built on. The Love of Freedom, Honesty, Integrity, Morals ( Good ones ), and love for your fellow man to help Build a strong community and country. You were not born a God, so stop trying to be one!
Praying for you,
Dan Schlosser.
Keep the Fish
I can't believe you would even waste your time trying to destroy something as nice and inviting as the mural on wall of his personal shop. He is not advertising what he sells. He doesn't sell those fish.
Are you doing as much with the gang tagging in your city? Or is that ok, because it's not what is being advertised?
You really should be ashamed of yourself. I can't believe such stupidity is involved in this. Why don't you go after the real criminals and leave those that are contributing to society in a positive way, alone.
You really make me sick.
Viva "Freedom of Speech"
Tracy
California
Sign Nazis
You can bet I won't come spend my tourist dollars in your town. America's people are fed up with being regulated to death by bureaucrats like you. I mean, REALLY fed up.
Let the guy keep the fish!
Ken
Mendota, VA
You have a problem...
Mr. Kronschnabl-
Perhaps, if you can read, you should take a little time to study the US Constitution, it's really an amazing read and probably very unlike wherever you crawled out of.
Your (city of Clearwater) website is typical of ass-backward thinking. It says:
"Features:
Sunsets at Pier 60 are every evening, starting two hours before sunset. Join local artists, craftspeople and performers at this famous landmark "
Of course sunsets are every evening....duh. But it is really hard for a sunset to start 2 hours before sunset. Somebody needs a mental professional right away.
But what I really want to know is why you are targeting The Complete Angler. Are you against people having a business and paying taxes, in a recession? It cannot be because you do not want murals on walls. I have lived in Clearwater and there are paintings on all kinds of buildings. A well known restaurant there is covered with murals. All the T-shirt stores have paintings on their businesses. Even Pier 60 has its own paintings. And your city has titty bars that clearly advertise their wares.
Part of the charm of small cities like your little one is the diversity instead of the vanilla flavor of totally homogeneous towns. Quintero's fish add charm, so does the Pier 60, so do other businesses that have artwork on their exterior.
Most sincerely,
Sandra
Huntsville, TX (where we believe in guns and rights)
Keep the fish!
Follow the money and you'll find the corruption in your city! It is my true belief that 90% of politicians cannot be trusted. This includes local government all the way up to the Commander and Chief! This suit is so foolish I can't believe the city is wasting tax payers money on it. It looks like Clearwater needs some cleaning out. Trust me when I tell you that there are a lot of other places to vacation in Florida than Clearwater... no offense to Mr. Quintero and other business owners. Ya know, perhaps when I'm on my way to those "other places" to vacation, I'll stop at Mr. Quintero's bait shop to get my fishing needs and then spend my money vacationing somewhere near, but out of Clearwater! Good luck to The Complete Angler and God Bless America and our Constitution!
Suzi
Gainesville, Florida
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl,
I am just an American citizen that would like to comment on the City of Clearwater's decision to fine Mr. Herb Quintero for displaying artwork outside of his business store.
I suppose banning the Bible and Christmas displays aren't enough for the politically correct. Now, they want to ban the public display of the text of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America.
This type of action by city officials doesn't surprise me. It infuriates me.
Keep free speech alive in America.
Sincerely,
Daniel
STOP HARASSING MR. QUINTERO!!!
JEFF KRONSCHNABL:
I'M ANGRY AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW IT!!!!
DON'T YOU HAVE ANYTHING BETTER TO DO THAN HARASS A BUSINESS OWNER WHO HAS THE RIGHT TO DISPLAY THE CONSTITUTION - THE FIRST AMENDMENT???!!!!!
WHAT IN THE WORLD IS WRONG WITH YOU IDIOTS. YOU HAVE NO COMMON SENSE, YOU THINK YOU ARE GOING BY THE LAW, BUT, THERE IS THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION.
LEAVE MR. QUINTERO ALONE!!! HE HAS DONE NOTHING ILLEGAL AND YOU JERKS KNOW IT.
HIS MURAL HAS BEEN DONE IN TASTE AND DOES NOT REFLECT WHAT HE SELLS. HE HAS A BEAUTIFUL SMALL MURAL WITH FISH ON IT.
YOU ARE ACTING LIKE COMMUNISTS/SOCIALISTS AND (AS OF THIS WRITING) WE ARE STILL THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA -- THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE!!!
YOU ARE LIKE A COP WHO IS WET BEHIND THE EARS AND JUST GOT HIS BADGE!! YOU LIKE TO CAUSE PROBLEMS WITH AND TO PEOPLE AND THEN HIDE BEHIND YOUR BADGE - OR YOUR OFFICE BECAUSE YOU THINK YOU CAN PLAY GOD...
WHY DON'T YOU GO OUT AND FIND SOME REAL TROUBLE IN YOUR TOWN; I.E. DRUG DEALERS, BURGLARS, KILLERS, RAPISTS, CHILD MOLESTERS (THAT IS IF YOU WOULD KNOW HOW TO EVEN HANDLE THEM) AND LEAVE MR. QUINTERO ALONE --- APOLOGIZE AND PAY HIM FOR THE DURESS YOU HAVE CAUSED HIM. THAT WOULD BE THE AMERICAN THING TO DO.
Jeannie
Colorado
How dare you!!!
To Jeff Kronschnabl,
I am a retired law enforcement officer and prior business owner in NJ. You obviously are one of the causes why people are losing their money, homes and businesses. In a time when businesses need all the help they can get to stay afloat, the only thing you can do is keep some ridiculous code that hurts businesses? Are you committed to keeping and enforcing a code that obviously is un-American at a time when we need Patriotism in our government officials? You are far from being a Patriot, you sound more like Gestapo. You and the rest of your cronies obviously will not be keeping your jobs too long -- pulling asinine stunts like this. Save your money because you won't have a job soon to pay your bills. See how you like being on the other end.
Gary
Linden, NJ
Get off of Herb's back!
Small business owners such as Herb Quintero are out here trying to improve the economy, make an honest living, hire employees and contribute to the overall development of the city and society.
City employees on the other hand seem to forget who pays their wages and are looking for ways to stifle truth, justice and the American way. Government is supposed to be Of the People, By the People and FOR the People.
Get the code enforcement Nazi’s off of Herbs back. Start promoting local businesses and for God’s sake start looking for ways to help instead of hinder.
Regards,
Alan
Pensacola, FL
FIRST AMENDMENT
Another blatant case of government ignoring the U.S. Constitution and the Florida State Constitution. Looks like the knuckleheads need a "checkup from the neck up" or better yet, voted out of office.
Jerry, ATCS(AC), USN-Ret.
Flint, Texas
United States of America
Our forefathers came to America to get away from individuals that told them what they can and cannot do (e.g. freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press) and established these United States.
Our constitution and bill of rights was written to make sure that didn’t happen here. Reading about how the basic right of freedom of speech is being attacked by the city of Clearwater is very un-American and a direct violation of our rights under the 1st amendment. Clearwater should back down from this.
Walter
Focus on real problems
Why don't you focus on real problems, like crime and graffiti. This seems like a waste of time, energy and government money when it could be used more wisely.
Sincerely,
Diane
Gig Harbor, WA
Signage
I sent the following response to Frank Hibbard, William Horne and Co.,
Give birth to your head. The guy is trying to run a business that pays taxes in your community. You idiots are sending the wrong signal to local businessmen. I also do not think you will win this battle. So you may end up spending more of your constituents money. NOT Good at the polls. Wish you well.
I think that about sums it up.
May ALMIGHTY GOD Bless You and do not give up no matter what.
Stephen
Bedford, Ohio
Stop the harassment
Mr. Kronschnabl:
In regards to your protest to Mr. Quintero for the painted fish on his bait and tackle store, I would hope that you do not harass or penalize him for his 1st Amendment rights.
Your should be supporting or commending him. As I understand, he has taken an old building and improved it into a nice business that should compliment your community. What a shame to harass him instead of support him.
Becky
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl,
I appreciate the fact you have a job to do and a code to enforce. In most instances, I am sure you are right in the execution of your duties. In the case of Mr. Herb Quintero, you are absolutely wrong. Mr. Quintero is running a legitimate business that is an asset to the community and should be protected from government.
Any citizen with common sense can see that the mural on the building owned by Mr. Quintero is not an advertisement, but art that improves the overall look of the neighborhood, and City of Clearwater. Small business is the engine that makes our county, state, and country run especially in the increasingly tough times. You, as a representative of the citizens of Clearwater, should not be looking to stifle a business that is in fact a positive impact on the city. Not to mention, Mr. Quintero who has done nothing wrong.
Please reconsider your stance in this case for the good of everyone. Please respect Mr. Quintero's right as an American to run a business unencumbered by vague bureaucratic regulations. This ordinance or city code is not for people like Mr. Quintero. The longer this nonsense continues, the worse things will look to the public and in times of political and economic turmoil this is surely to be avoided. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Vincent
Soon to be customer of "The Complete Angler"
Land O Lakes, Florida
Stand Tall
Keep up the stand against the city. That is complete crap what they are doing to you. Reminds me of communism/socialism. I'm making a donation to your pay pal to help you out. If I'm ever in Clearwater, I'll swing by to grab fishing supplies from you.
Thank You!
Doug
Boise, ID
Mr. Jeff Kronschnabl,
Your town is now on my list of places not to vacation, not to visit, not to spend money in. If you see my motor home in your town, it will only stop for stop lights or to support Herb Quintero. Why? Why would I endanger myself in a town failing to respect the US Constitution? Your town council did not refund the initial fine to Herb Quintero, did not change the sign regulation, instead it chose to let you impose another illegal fine, so your town council is worse than ignorant. Obamatized might be the term for your town council.
Soon Clearwater will be another FL town that has implemented & persisted in illegal regulations and paid fines for not terminating those regulations. Or maybe this is not the first occasion for Clearwater?
Will Clearwater maximize the waste of money by driving this to Federal Courts? Towns in FL seem to have a tradition of making illegal regulations, illegal zoning, illegal restrictions of citizens. Have you noticed how many FL towns have tried to eliminate Churches & how they lose, pay fines?
I would be happy to know you have forwarded this to members of your town council.
God Bless You,
Eric
Livingston, TX
WOW!
What a RETARDED story to hear about!!!!
I live in Canada and the news I get about Florida is THIS????
A business owner is getting FINED for ARTWORK??????!!!!! You have got to be kidding!!!!!
Yes, I've read your argument. It is STUPID!
City of Clearwater --- FIND SOMETHING ELSE TO DO!!!
You clearly have too much time on your hands! ESPECIALLY in a GLOBAL recession!!!!
You are giving a BUSINESS OWNER a fine???!!!!! A business owner who is providing JOBS in the community. WOW!!!
Donna
Leave small business people alone.........
Dear Clearwater Official:
My family and I read the article on the small business, The Complete Angler, you are trying to fine out of business by your excessive fines.
You are allowing "other" businesses to display their "signs", such as the Dunkin Donuts coffee cup as well as the "gentleman's clubs" showing big breasted women, then the attractive mural of different fish on this small business should definitely be OK.
We have friends in Florida and have visited your attractions in the past. Your misguided "selective" restrictions" give my family and myself a bad taste and we will avoid any future visits to spend our money with you and your state.
You need to do what is right for our country. Many have died to give us our rights of freedom of speech.
Sincerely,
Keith
Coffeyville, KS
Mr Kronschnabl,
Who do you think you are?
Knock off the ridiculous actions against this merchant and give it up altogether.
You clearly do not understand the meaning on the Constitution of the United States or the Bill of Rights.
Fred
Las Cruces, NM
TAXES
Is this man paying Business & Occupation tax and the many other taxes in which support your paychecks and budgets?
Also, envision the fish being gone, the wall would be a blab yellow wall, the man on his own accord and with his own budget is beautifying the city and trying to make it a better place for all. I could understand if it was a sign that was blocking the view of traffic, or pedestrians or a public safety issue -- the city would have a leg to stand on.
I think he ought to be complimented on the top quality image and appearance he is trying to portray without signs, banners, flashing neons, etc.
This is part of our problem with the economy right now: government getting to involved with private sector instead managing (its own) business.
Shane
Something smells fishy
This is the stupidest law or ordinance that anyone or city could put into effect. What is the meaning of this?? I am so appalled at many of this country's ordinances, as well as, city's ordinances. How can these officials deny someone a chance to help him advertise, even though he isn't actually selling these fish depicted on his wall? This country is falling so fast in the last 2 decades. What is the idea of having rights as an American if they are just going to be scrutinized and fined for practicing those rights? This is undoubtedly a mistake for denial. It certainly isn't like this business is advertising that should be censored. It looks like a pretty legitimate business to me. There is no vulgarity or anything to that effect. Then the city tries to fine the business over a posting of our rights. Okay, now I see how this country is falling into socialism. The government has control of everything.
Loren
My letter to Clearwater officials
Attached is the letter I just faxed to Jeff Kronschnabl, William Horne, and Frank Hibbard. I've been to Florida and have seen shop walls painted just like The Complete Angler, and they're very attractive in that resort/beach environment. In fact, my daughter-in-law painted buildings very similar to that when they lived in New Smyrna Beach. It is ludicrous that you have to go through this and very sad when you consider the very big issues we have to deal with today because of the economy, and it is only going to get worse, I'm afraid.
Gentlemen:
We have a recession going on and much, much bigger things to worry about than harassing a local businessman. There is something wrong with your sign ordinance that to me appears arbitrary and then when attention is drawn to it. Then city officials often dig their heels in to avoid further embarrassment. I see this happening in my own community and others around the area. It’s very sad -- Please…this is America…we are supposed to live in peace and tranquility – freedom and liberty. I implore you to use common sense, do the right thing, correct the language of the ordinance so that it is fair to all and not arbitrary, and stop unnecessarily harassing your citizens.
Janet
Greenfield, IN
The Complete Angler: The City is Stuck on Stupid!
Given the fact that each month hundreds of businesses are closing.
How can any REASONABLE government force onerous rules and FINES on a business?
Do you not like the revenue this business brings in?
- From Tourists?
- From Locals?
As a Gulf War General repeatedly chided: Don't be Stuck on Stupid!
We'll it appears you're Stuck.
Perry
First Amendment Rights
How dare you object to the store's First Amendment Rights. It is quite obvious your city government is one of those who are haters of America.
Shirley
Cushing, OK.
Keep the fish!
The following message was sent to Jeff Kronschnabl a little while ago:
C'mon Jeff...leave the guy alone.
This is America!
(I'm going to call the city manager later.)
Bill
South Boston, MA
Dear Mr. Jeff (Kronschnabl),
How in the world do you get off harassing a fellow citizen with respect to his right to free speech!? Further more threatening to fine the man for posting part of OUR FOUNDING DOCUMENT!? This is an outrage and should be stopped immediately. You should refund the man and publicly apologize for running roughshod over the Constitution.
Disgusted,
Aaron
MN
Constitution
"We the People" no longer own anything. We simply rent from the government (and for the government) because of people like you. Are you happy now? We are quickly approaching the point where it is counterproductive for working Americans to continue to be economically productive.
Mary
FISH!
Mr. Kronschnabl-
Fish, you have a problem with FISH? Have you not looked around and discovered that you are actually in the State of Florida? Am I wrong or is FISH a large part of your industry? I am 54 years old and I have never seen anything as ridiculous as paintings of Fish being banned. You people better wise up. In Galveston, Texas, we have FISH everywhere! This country is going in the wrong direction and it is the stupidity of people like you! You want to take God out of everything and now you are claiming foul on fish. My advice to you is this, take heed because these United States of America are going to start Taking Back OUR Country and OUR RIGHTS! Your time will be better spent in supporting this Business as it is businessmen like him that keep your State going.
Amy
Navasota, TEXAS
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl,
I am writing to express outrage over the mural at a Clearwater business. I cannot imagine why the public officials believe it falls under the ordinance. However, if it does, I can’t understand why you would want an oppressive ordinance that prevents Mr. Quintero from painting tasteful artwork on his building.
Your office is an example of what Americans revolted against in the American Revolution. Your actions, while seemingly small, are moving us one more step towards another American revolution. I sincerely hope that this revolution will be fought and won in the courtrooms rather than on the battlefields. While I fear a militarized revolution and the carnage that it creates, I fear more an oppressive Government just as my ancestor who signed the Declaration of Independence, and all of my ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War.
America does not need over-zealous Government officials brandishing their power on the people. There is no winning this battle with Mr. Quintero. You can save face, however, by doing the right thing. Re-evaluate and change your decision. If you believe you cannot, then you need to approve a waiver, as is repeatedly done in zoning issues, or amend the ordinance to prevent such a ridiculous thing from ever happening again.
Dan
Copy of Correspondence to City of Clearwater
Hello,
We've been following your story through the news. Just thought I'd copy you what I sent to the city manager, mayor, council, and the "Development and Neighborhood services director." Sure hope things start looking up for you.
Hello, We vacation down in Florida (we live in Ohio) and actually went through the AAA Florida guidebook considering a trip and possible destinations. Clearwater WILL NOT be on our itinerary due to the disgusting events that have transpired concerning Herb Quintero and The Complete Angler store. What, are we now in Russia? Sweden? Our country is not communist....YET, although persons and governmental departments such as yourself keep trying to land us there. Is it now AGAINST THE LAW to display, ironically I might add, the part of our Constitution pertaining to the freedom of speech and expression?? Their mural doesn't even depict the products that they sell, which from what I understand, is the what Clearwater's ordinance prohibits. Please correct me if I'm wrong. However, if you are honest and humble people, you'll admit errors in judgment, refund all fine monies, and make a public statement regarding these things. If we DO come close to your area, we'll make it a point to visit Mr. Quintero's store, and nothing else in your city, not a meal or a gasoline fill up, if the city doesn't back off this issue. We are sick to death of our Constitution being ignored or trampled on. If your government department drops its case against Mr. Quintero, we will GLADLY consider adding your area to our plans. Thank you for your time.
Scott, Carrollton (tourist)
Dear Jeff Kronschnabl,
All over the USA are tax $ scamming bureaucrats squeezing the life out of productive, creative citizens!
Why don't you fire a few of them in Clearwater and give the wealth producers a fighting chance!
Bunch of little toads that couldn't find their hankies in their hands now have "the power" to put their jackboots on the intelligent and hardworking!
That's the Government our Founding Fathers so warned us about. Now we don't teach our students their USA history. What's up with that!
They might read and know The Bill of Rights; not good for the political class. It is not rich vs. poor, black vs. white, etc. These are red herrings loudly touted to take our attention away from the political class vs. the people!
Creeps!
Very sincerely,
Sandra
Bonita Springs
KEEP IT UP, KEEP THE FISH!
Your mural looks very tasteful (no pun intended). Perhaps you messed up someone's (in official places) plans to get the building for dimes on the dollar--as the reports state it used to be dilapidated. Seems something's fishy for them to pick on your business and to carry it this far after all the bad publicity there has been for the city-- unless they are using you (and the publicity) to bring in tourism--sad. I would not only expect to see this type of artwork on a building in a seaside town, I'd be disappointed not to--as it adds to the experience.
We visited Clearwater this summer (just for a day), wish we had known about this we would have stopped by to offer our support. Now if they want to do something, they could take care of that fish stench at the beach pier gate entrance and the crazy fee they charge just to walk on it. My husband is in a wheel chair so that was about all he could do there. Anyway, we wish you well and pray for your victory.
Keep standing on your constitutional rights!
God Bless,
Christine
Pulaski, NY
Mr. Kronschnabl:
You people seem obsessed with "winning," rather than using your powers to promote good business. The Complete Anger murals DO NOT portray items sold by the business--so you are "twisting" a very clear regulation so that you can “win" a silly argument. Your actions are childish and reflect government officials who clearly have lost their way.
After working in government for thirty years, I have found that actions such your often can be explained when citizens “follow the money.” Someone is benefiting from your actions—and we all need to dig deep and find out what really is happening here.
David
Tourism
I cannot believe that you would fine a man for displaying part of the constitution. Wonder what this might do to tourism in your "fair" city.
Jim
Pine Bluff, AR
City allowing the county to violate its code?
Since Clearwater is to some degree a marine-based economy, with businesses and tourism based on marine activities, then it would seem to me that mural#3 "Mural on a county building on East St. in Clearwater", violates the city's code in the exact same way in which the Quintero building is alleged to violate city code.
I would further claim that if any city buildings have similar art, statuary, architectural features, then those buildings would violate the same code. I would bet money that somewhere in Clearwater, there are city buildings that fit that description. (Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, etc.)
I wish you good fortune in making your case and helping to eliminate just one more bit of governmental intrusion into peoples' lives and livings.
John A
Arizona
Leave the Fish!
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl:
Your persecution of Herb Quintero for the fish on his building is a ridiculous waste of taxpayer money in a time when the average person is struggling. I hope he sues the city of Clearwater for millions and wins. This is a clear cut case of selective vision on the part of the city. Now to add insult to injury, you are fining him for displaying the First Amendment of the Constitution!! Somebody in Clearwater city government needs to be disciplined or resign over this fiasco.
My question is what city official has a personal grudge against Mr. Quintero. The St. Petersburg Times has clearly documented the existence of such murals all over the city, but the city only goes after one man - Herb Quintero. So who has a personal vendetta against Mr. Quintero?
Mr. Quintero should be refunded his $690, have any and all legal fees reimbursed, and get a public apology from the city of Clearwater.
Your persecution of a small business owner who invested in a run down area of the city to make it better stinks. Instead of fining Quintero and trying to shut him down, the city should be thanking him for investing in a run down area to revitalize it.
I live in New York. The negative publicity for your city is now nation wide. I hope the city is proud of the image you have given America. In the worst financial times in my 50 years of life, you want to punish a man who is trying to make ends meet and help a run down area of your city. I travel to Florida annually. I know one city that won't get my tourist dollars. It's Clearwater.
I am proud to be an American, but saddened by the oppressive communist like attitude taken by Clearwater.
Chris G.
New York City
Give it a break-
How about helping a business rather than driving them out of business.
You are know in the private sector as a "Peon With Power". Sucking off the big government titty.
I challenge YOU to start a business. YOU would fail in no time.
Give the fish a break and go find some weeds that are too high.
Ed
Dallas, TX
To the City of Clearwater
Maybe you should check out the drinking water in your city and make sure that it is not making you delirious . This story makes you sound like a bunch of idiots?? I guess you don't want a local business to succeed, after all you city doesn't need money?
Linda (Education Professional)
Keep the Fish!
I am from New Mexico and saw this article in the World Net Daily. I feel that this business owner has a clear right to keep the paintings of the fish. He isn’t selling the fish, so there is no legal justification for the city of Clearwater to take action against him. The artist is well talented and the sign is lovely.
Surely the city of Clearwater needs something for the schools, or the city public transportation system, maybe a little more playground equipment in the parks, a new ambulance, or something worthy of the taxpayer funds. This is Gestapo tactics and is a shame and a disgrace to the officials who are keeping the fight going.
Carolyn
Reserve, NM 87830
You lost our business
Mr. Kronschnabl,
A relative who was helping me plan our next once-a-decade multi-family (120-125 members this year), reunion, to take place later this year in Clearwater, brought to my attention the situation regarding the mural on the side of the Complete Angler building. I was on the verge of starting to make reservations in several Clearwater area motels for our crowd when his message arrived. Many of us had planned to fish several times during the 6-day reunion, so interest in Complete Angler's situation is relevant to us.
I have now polled all family members who were planning to attend this event, and with very few exceptions, all felt we should support Complete Angler by changing the location of our reunion and making donations to their efforts to retain the artwork on their building. Therefore, we are in the process of choosing another location for our reunion - taking our business someplace with more intelligent city management and more respect for both mural art and our Bill of Rights. We plan to be at least 50 miles away from Clearwater, if not possibly in another state, completely, so that none of our expenditures will trickle into Clearwater in the form of taxes or profits to local businesses. If still in Florida, several folks did say that they would bend this decision a little my taking a couple of carloads of fishermen to Complete Angler to purchase goods and bait from them, but this would be the only place in Clearwater where they would stop.
Several family members know other people who either regularly stay in the Clearwater area, or who were planning to visit this year. These family members are spreading the word to their friends to avoid Clearwater until further notice. Who would have thought that such a stupid decision on the part of City Management would generate this kind of interest? You folks must be Dim-ocrats!
Anyway, I thought you might like to hear about this and to know that there will be a little less business in Clearwater this year, and possibly into the future, that is NOT due to the economic downturn, rather, is due to the lack of good judgment on the part of City Management.
Enjoy the fruits of your decisions and have a wonderfully dark and cloudy day,
Richard
Houston, TX.
TO KEEP THE FISH
Tis' a sad thing that Clearwater, hereinafter called Mudhole, has taken the stance it has regarding Herb Quintero's Mural.
Maybe Mudhole officials are ticked, as Mr. Quintero's mural is similar to one painted on a county building on East Street
there in Mudhole, depicting an underwater scene with several specimens of underwater life, and the town and county
officials there are a tad jealous?
To the citizens of Mudhole, be it known I mean no disrespect in renaming what appears to be a nice town on the outside, but
codes such as this and the actions of the officials there, make it so. Have any ever stepped into what appears to be a nice
pool of water and ended up in mud to your knees.
In my mind, these 'officials' are an enemy to America, and all she stands for. They should not mess with the Constitution of the United States of America by trying to turn our country into a socialist/commie country by the actions they are taking against Mr. Quintero.
Nathan
Tatum, NM
Draconian Methods
This is not one of those PC causes the ACLU usually supports - this is about draconian methods employed by the city to stifle expression. Mr. Quintero is entirely within his rights, this is a First Amendment issue - the cities misguided effort to remove both the mural and the display of the First Amendment should be squashed and Mr. Quintero compensated for harassment. It does hark back to the days of 1939 Germany.
Roger
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl:
The art work on ANY building is clearly an expression of ART. Art makes a statement -- will the City of Clearwater (near my once-home of Tampa) require all art work on the apartment buildings and huge ghetto renovations in NYC and Harlem to remove their art work?
Will the City of Destin, FL demand that the famous WYLAND to remove all his paintings around the world???
Think twice. I pray that Mr. Herb Quintero will be allowed to keep his ART WORK without further annoyance.
VERY SINCERELY,
Arleen
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Mr. Kronschnabl:
After reading the article on WND.com about the Complete Angler, I had to write you all and express my outrage. How can you possibly fine a man for hanging the first amendment????This is insanity. Have you gone mad? You need to explain yourself to the members, not only of the community in which you live, but to the country. The arrogance you exude is nauseating. Who do you think you are? You are in no way enforcing the law by asking a tax paying citizen to remove a banner with the first amendment. Are you so deranged that you cannot see the nonsense that you are exhibiting. It is laughable. You are a fool. And you are only hurting your community and its reputation. Make this wrong right before you destroy families with this insanity.
Concerned,
Stephanie
Atlanta, GA
Keep it up!
Don't give up the fight! We have similar (crooked and unevenly enforced) ordinances in Independence, MO. I fought the bastards here and won. I based my fight on the unequal enforcement. I just spent about 2 hours driving around videotaping every violation in town that I knew was long-standing, then gave copies of the video to each city council member with a letter promising to "out" their inconsistencies to the press (I also threatened to sue them under the equal protection Clause of the Constitution). Let me tell you, I had some groveling, apologetic councilman talking to me, and I never heard another word about my sign... including from my very own city councilman, who was the one who instigated the whole thing because I had put up a political sign for his opponent in the last election. Hope you win!
Kim
Independence, MO
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl,
Please allow the fish mural to be displayed on the The Complete Angler bait and tackle shop wall and know that your city is being seen as arbitrary and punitive regarding the first amendment display issue. A small businessman like Herb Quintero should not be punished at any time for such issues, and certainly not during these economically hard times.
I am an avid angler in Maine and will be sure to patronize that bait and tackle shop the next time I am lucky enough to get to fish in Clearwater.
Sincerely,
James
Professor of Science, Technology and Society (verified by www.keepthefish.com)
Waterville, ME
Go Herb!
Wow. I am a Florida resident of nine years. Florida is notorious for their unconstitutional fees, so it really isn't a surprise that they are upset about the constitution being posted. They don't want anyone to find out that they REALLY don't have the right to do what they are doing. If anyone has lived here for even 12 years, I believe they will remember the "impact" fees imposed on incoming residents. They were ridiculously high...and ransom for your tags. It was later struck down. But they still tax this way in other areas...such as charging impact fees PER SEAT in a restaurant, often claiming that EIGHT people can be seated in a booth! So I sincerely hope Mr. Quintero wins this as it would be a win for us ALL. I applaud his willingness to stand up for this...which is ultimately standing up for us all.
Marci
Question for Mr. Kronschnabl,
I have just read the story about the fish paintings. I don't understand the city's side of the story, and would like to.
On their web site it says, "They worry that if they do not penalize Mr. Quintero, other businesses – such as lingerie shops, might then be able to legally get away with painting pictures of women in lingerie, or whatever, on the sides of their buildings."
If that is the case, it looks like they actually had the right to paint naked women on their bait shop wall, while the lingerie shop could paint fish. Unless this is incorrect, you've created a loophole for art freedom which could be abused just as easily as advertisement signage.
There should be rules, but it seems the focus is misplaced at the moment.
Good luck to your city, and I hope all will be resolve.
God Bless,
Michael
Celina, TX
THANKS
Mr. Quintero,
Thanks for standing up for your rights under the Constitution, and thanks to World Net Daily for picking up the story. Perhaps a few more citizen Floridians and legislators will take an interest in the state sovereignty and 10th Amendment resolutions in many of the state legislatures now. One of them has already passed in OK.
Best wishes,
Mary
Spokane, WA
Leave the guy alone
Dear whomever,
I live in Rockford Il and I just read story about the guy with fish pictures on the side of his
building. Of all the issues that need to be taken care of in this God forsaken world you guys
focus and waste time and money on harassing people like this. Exactly why this nation is disintegrating.........Constitution means nothing ......God means nothing....We have turned ours backs on the father and you shall reap the consequences. I hope this guy not only takes you people to court but also sues the pants off of you to make an example.
There is going to be another tea party soon and its because of how people are treated
Michael
To Clearwater Officials re: Keep the Fish
While I do not reside in Florida, I read the articles concerning this person and am astounded that the city is giving the man grief over the fish he has painted on his walls. The man took a dilapidated building and upgraded it to something worth looking at, shouldn't that be something to think about when you guys decide what is art and what isn't?
Also, from what I read, your ordinance says they can't have murals on the business depicting what they sell or do. Well, the man obviously doesn't sell these fish. So how can it be a sign?
And, I will bet Dunkin Donuts has a giant donut or coffee cup on the brightly lit sign in front of their store... did they also get into trouble and fined until it was removed? I don't think so.
Business use signs and murals to depict pieces of their business. While this man does not sell the fish on the mural, he is a tackle shop. Your city must be pretty bland and boring if it cannot have pictures on business signs. Actually, so boring that I don't think Clearwater will ever be a place for my family to vacation at. And if I were you guys, I would be ashamed of this publicity that your foolish laws are creating.
And then to fine the man for having the Constitution up!! YOUR forefathers FOUGHT for that man's right to do business as he pleased, do say as he pleased, and you are fining him for it! Shame on you for doing that! The Constitution is a sacred piece of this country's history, even if it's obviously not followed anymore. May God have mercy on your soul for such a show of bullying!
Get rid of such a ridiculous ordinance, or at least come up with better ways to make determinations, and make them the SAME for all businesses, big or small!
Donna
Muncy, PA
Dear Mr. Kronschnabl, (head of Code Enforcement for the City of Clearwater)
I am an occasional tourist who has visited Florida several times, including Clearwater and the Tampa bay region in particular for the boating and fishing opportunities, gorgeous beaches and other water sports. I must say I am shocked and dismayed at your misguided policy of penalizing a well-meaning shopkeeper. Mr. Quintero, the owner of the Complete Angler has done nothing but UPGRADE the local environment. I suppose his only mistake was in not padding your private pocket with a little green good will when the artist commenced the project. I expect these stories in the region to the south of my home, but not in the United States. Now you are offending the sensibilities of normal, reasonable people everywhere by fining him for a political protest with the posting of his constitutional rights. As a coastal resident in the San Diego California area for the last 20 years I have taken delight in the small, medium, large and even gigantic aquatic murals that have been painted on all kinds of buildings since I moved here.
Next time I come to Florida I will be sure to patronize that shop. I will also be sure to register my opinion of the city bureaucrats far and wide and do what I can to support your local political opposition unless you kindly let me know if you have changed course, refunded any fines paid and issued an apology to Mr. Quintero and all those associated with this business who have been inconvenienced in any way by your selective prosecution.
Kari
Carlsbad, CA
Here's what I wrote to the city manager:
Honestly, doesn't the city have better things to do? I think the fish mural on the Quintero's business is tasteful and attractive. In my opinion it adds interest and character to the area. I read about this issue online. I do hope the City of Clearwater can come to some commonsense solution to this "problem."
Cindy
Dubuque, Iowa
Dear Jeff (Kronschnabl):
As a movie line once said, "Surely you can't be serious!" I'm referencing the City of Clearwater's un-American strong arm tactics against Herb Quintero and the artwork on the building that houses his business, The Complete Angler. With government harassment of a similar nature, and worse, of businesses countrywide, it's no wonder companies are pulling their operations out of the United States and establishing them in foreign countries.
Please stop being so idiotically pig-headed about this issue and drop it in the name of good ol' American ingenuity, marketing, and free enterprise!
Scott
Longmont, CO
Email to Jeff Kronschnable
Re: The abuse of Mr. Quintero
After reading about the abuses that the City of Clearwater has inflicted upon Mr. Quintero, I will not be visiting Clearwater Florida for a very long time. And I have spread the word to family and friends of this outrage also.
Alan
Seattle, Washington
www.dyedinthewoolconservative.blogspot.com
Tyranny
Sure glad I don't live in Clearwater, land of chads and in-your-face government. You are persecuting Mr. Quintero for no good reason. Leave him alone. He and his business are assets for your town, and in this day and age government officials had better do less interfering in private enterprise and do more violent crime prevention. Citizens are fed up with all this smothering government oversight. Figure out something useful to do, or go home and get off the public payroll.
Kathy
76635
Question for Clearwater Officials
What is the difference between the fish mural which is in line with the store’s business and the firefighter mural on the city building? The firefighter mural directly describes the activities inside that building while the fish mural is just in keeping with the activities of the community. What a bunch of meddlers!
Gregg
Sidney, OH
